Falconry: A World Heritage

11 March 2005, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

 

"Falconry: A World Heritage" was the motto of the international symposium held at the start of the 52nd CIC General Assembly in Abu Dhabi. Numerous CIC members and experts from all over the world gathered together to discuss this important issue.

 

The opening words were of honor and deep respect for the achievements of HH the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was, being a very passionate falconer in all his life, the father and founder of Environmental Concern and Conservation in the United Arab Emirates. His devotion and concern had and still has many positive effects for falconry and conservation worldwide.

 

The lectures outlined that falconry is one of the oldest hunting techniques and a cultural heritage all over the world and therefore it must be kept alive for future generations as a very good example of wise and sustainable use of nature.

 

Falconry is under serious threat by the anti hunting movements. That is why all speakers stressed that the fact that falconry is using natural resources in a wise and sustainable way must be clearly shown. Therefore achievements such as the CITES Documentation of Falcons (Falcon Pass), the Houbara Breeding Programme, hunting management plans based on scientific research and the very valuable history of falconry must be presented to the non-hunting public and to all falconers as well. An Archive for Global Falconry should be established in order to improve communication. Keep the history of falconry alive!